Being the change she wants to see

ARMED with a guitar, vocals and an unwavering sense of hope, Tessa Fapani is trying to change the world while inspiring others to do the same.

The 25-year-old singer-songwriter said her life "changed forever" after visiting the Nairobi Children's Home in Kenya's capital earlier this year, sparking her desire to improve the lives of those less fortunate.

"I realised that I wanted to help," she said.

"I'd worked in the mines for four years, and I was driven by making money but then I realised I had to fill my heart too."

Determined to make her experience authentic, Ms Fapani boycotted the tours and guides, choosing instead to live with a Nairobi local in a house with with no running water or amenities.

While at the children's home, she sang and danced with the kids, helped teach a little bit of English and got her hands dirty with preparing and serving meals.

After six weeks of what she described as the most fulfilling work she'd done, the Sippy Downs resident returned home with a passion to create a better life for the people she had met.

"It opened my eyes to the fact that it's actually really easy to make change."

Inspired by the advice to 'be the change you want to see in the world', Ms Fapani launched her 'Be the Change' initiative, a series of live music events aimed at raising funds and awareness for the Nairobi Children's Home.

"There'll be plenty more to come!" she said.

Her first performance will be held at Mykie's by the Bay, Kawana Island from 12pm - 4pm on November 19 with all funds raised going directly to the home.

Tickets include food and drink as well, and can be bought via www.bethechangetessamarie.eventbrite.com.au.